The Boston Celtics are preparing to host the Oklahoma City Thunder in a potential NBA Finals preview. The visitors, who already boast the best record in the league, will be at full strength for the first time this season. While Jayson Tatum is continuing to ramp up as the playoffs near, the only player Boston's without is Nikola Vucevic. The two-time All-Star is dealing with a fractured right ring finger.
Well before tip-off on Wednesday, the Celtics had to address another order of business. Charles Bassey's 10-day deal had expired. The franchise needed to immediately sign someone to a standard contract to remain at the league minimum of carrying 14 players on that arrangement.